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Are dark clots normal after a dilation and curettage?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I went for an NT scan, and they informed me that the baby’s growth and heartbeat had stopped at nine weeks. My doctor performed dilation and curettage procedure last Monday afternoon. The bleeding has since reduced to about one pad per day, but today I noticed dark clots passing during urination. Is this normal, or should I see my doctor immediately?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Passing dark blood clots after a D&C (dilation and curettage) is usually normal during the first one to twoweeks as your uterus sheds any remaining tissue. However, knowing what is considered normal and when to seek medical attention is important.

When It is Normal:

  1. Mild to moderate bleeding that gradually decreases.

  2. Dark blood clots (smaller than a coin) when urinating or wiping.

  3. Mild cramping.

  4. When to See a Doctor Urgently:

  5. Large blood clots (bigger than a golf ball) or excessive bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour).

  6. Severe abdominal pain or intense cramping that doesn’t improve.

  7. Foul-smelling discharge (may indicate an infection).

  8. Fever or chills (signs of infection).

  9. Dizziness or weakness (could suggest heavy blood loss).

Since your bleeding has reduced and the clots are dark (indicating old blood), it is likely part of the normal healing process. However, if you experience worsening or concerning symptoms, it’s best to contact your doctor for reassurance and further evaluation.

During recovery, make sure to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and avoid heavy lifting or intercourse for at least two weeks to allow your body to heal properly. If you need more guidance or support, don’t hesitate to reach out you are not alone in this.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 8, 2025
Reviewed At May 8, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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